Easter Extravaganza!

It's so great to be with family for the holidays- it just makes them that much more special. We were lucky to have Michael's dad fly out to California for a weekend to be with us last Easter and also to help us with our taxes! He helped us with our taxes this year too, as well as when we lived in Orlando.

On Wednesday we celebrated Ms. Kim's birthday by dressing up and going out to eat at Ocean. I tried- and enjoyed- the "beginner's sushi". It was cooked, so I was more willing to try it. The table shared a platter with five different kinds. The three I had were very yummy. I ordered the salmon, which came with a grain that I really enjoyed. I looked it up and its called farro. I wish I had taken some family pictures with her, Meredith, Christopher, Dr. Gore, and Nana. I didn't realize I wouldn't get that chance again this weekend.

But today I got pictures with Michael (and Sasha!), Mrs. Patty, Parker and Joo. I woke up at 8:38am when I got a text from my mom, which was perfect timing, because I had set my alarm for 8:40 so I could do Day 7 of the Shred before taking a shower and getting ready for church. Michael even came to church with us! It was only my second time at that church since I work most Sundays, but I always so emotional when they sing the songs at the beginning.

After church Michael and I went back to our apartment for about an hour, until Mrs. Patty said lunch was ready. She and Dr. Gore are so wonderful to us! In the meantime, I read a book while Michael made a video review of the site mark he recently got for his new gun- an AR15. Lunch was very yummy, as all of her meals are. We enjoyed salad, rolls, honey ham, turkey, asparagus, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes and deviled eggs. For dessert Parker and Joo made two different kinds of cake ~ a vanilla with blackberries and a chocolate Andes mint!

After I filled up three paper plates of leftovers, Michael and I went back to our apartment again to change into "outdoor clothes" so the five of us could go for a walk along our usual 50-minute loop at a nearby park. Later in the evening Michael and I walked around our complex, so I could check out the pool area and I wanted to show him a trail I found! Having him with me, we were able to explore more and followed one area down a rocky hill that lead to a nearby shopping center. The Winn-Dixie was open so we checked out the pasta bar and they had a summer farro salad! I got a cup of that and we headed back. The trek uphill wasn't bad. I always enjoy hiking and it was especially fun today. It was just a really great day overall!

     "Oh, the world is so much more exciting when you're in love."
           ~Morgan Menzie